Bauchi Gov Emphasises Need to Strengthen Security Architecture, Improve Military Personnel Welfare
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed yesterday expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army is well- equipped and determined to defend Nigeria and Nigerians against all forms of insecurity with the modernisation of its operations for excellence.
Speaking at the unveiling of the new headquarters of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps Complex and the opening ceremony of the Armour Reunion Celebration held at Obienu Barracks in Bauchi, the governor, however, emphasised the need for strengthening the country’s security architecture by boosting the morale of troops, and improve the welfare of military personnel for efficient service delivery.
Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, Governor Mohammed believed that the Obienu Barracks new complex with its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure would undoubtedly serve as a hub for the training and deployment of personnel and coordination of the operations of the Armoured Corps.
According to him, “I must commend the foresight and initiative of the leadership of the Nigerian Army in undertaking the construction of this impressive complex. At a time when our country is facing numerous security challenges, it is heartening to see the army taking proactive steps to strengthen its operational capabilities and enhancing the readiness of its Armoured Corps.”
The governor said he was “particularly proud and grateful that this important military structure has been established within our state. I am certain that the Armoured Corps will continue to play a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity in the North-east region.”
He recalled that the Armour Reunion celebration was designed to bring both serving and retired Armour officers together to deliberate and share knowledge and experience on the way forward in strengthening the capabilities of the Armoured Corps as the initiative would go a long way in enhancing the capacity of the Nigerian Army in Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency operations.
“I have taken personal interest and align with the theme of the reunion, which is: ‘Enhancing the Capacity of NAAC for improved Operational Efficiency within a Joint Environment’.
“I therefore wish to affirm my earlier canvassed opinion that the security challenges facing our dear country can only be curtailed when security agencies and the relevant authorities including states work together towards a common end. This calls for synergy among the various security agencies,” he stated.
The governor said it is important that the major non-governmental organisations, humanitarian agencies and international partners in Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency operations share the campaign objectives and do not work at odds with them, hence effective coordination is required among relevant agencies to avoid needless duplication of efforts and ensure seamless information sharing and unified action.
He stated that his administration is committed towards providing the necessary support for the Nigerian Army in its mission to eradicate all forms of security challenges in Bauchi State as it has acknowledged the importance of a secure and peaceful environment for the development and prosperity of the citizens.
Mohammed said: “Since the coming of my administration in 2019, it has been collaborating with the Nigerian Army in implementing strategic security initiatives, enhancing intelligence gathering, and providing the required resources to stem the tide of criminal activities in our state. On this note, I would like to express the sincere appreciation of the Government and the good people of Bauchi State to the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment and dedication in safeguarding our country and protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Bauchi State.”
Governor Mohammed, therefore, used the medium to congratulate Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the 23rd Chief of Army Staff on his milestones achievements since he assumed office, and expressed utmost confidence in his ability to lead the Nigerian Army in tackling the numerous security challenges facing the country.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Lagbaja, pledged full support for the Armoured Corps to reactivate its operational facilities for improved operational efficiency to effectively safeguard the territorial integrity of the country.
The Army Chief expressed gratitude to Governor Mohammed for his administrations outstanding support to the Armoured Corps and other army formations in Bauchi State promised to remain focused in overcoming security challenges.
